Craving the perfect diner-style burger at home? These Smash Burgers with Baconnaise Sauce are ultra-crispy, juicy, and packed with bold, smoky flavor. The secret weapon? A rich, creamy bacon-infused mayo that takes this burger to next-level delicious. No fancy equipment required—just a hot skillet and a hearty appetite.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Optional: sliced pickles, lettuce, tomato, red onion
For the Baconnaise Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 strips cooked bacon, finely crumbled
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper
🍳 Instructions
- Make the baconnaise sauce:
In a small bowl, stir together mayo, crumbled bacon, mustard, lemon juice, paprika, and pepper. Chill until ready to use. - Form the beef balls:
Divide ground beef into 4 loose balls (about 4 oz each). Do not compact—this helps with the smash. - Heat your skillet or griddle:
Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. - Smash and cook:
Place two balls in the pan, spaced apart. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash each into a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until edges are crispy and browned. - Flip and add cheese:
Flip the patties, immediately top with cheese, and cook for 1–2 more minutes. Remove and repeat with remaining patties. - Toast the buns:
Lightly butter and toast the buns in the same skillet until golden. - Assemble the burgers:
Spread baconnaise on both buns. Stack two patties per bun if desired, and layer with your favorite toppings. Serve hot!
💡 Tips
- Use a very hot skillet for the best sear and crispy edges.
- Smash the patties within the first 30 seconds of hitting the pan—don’t wait!
- Keep toppings simple to let the meat and sauce shine.
- Make extra baconnaise—you’ll want it on everything.
🔁 Variations & Substitutions
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the baconnaise for heat.
- Use turkey or plant-based patties for a lighter version.
- Try with brioche, pretzel, or sesame seed buns for different textures.
- Make it a bacon smash burger by adding crispy bacon strips on top.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the baconnaise ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
What’s the best beef for smash burgers?
80/20 ground chuck is ideal—it’s fatty enough to stay juicy and crisp beautifully.
Do I need a burger press?
Nope! A sturdy spatula or even a metal pan works just fine.
Why smash the burgers?
Smashing increases surface area, creating more browning and better texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crinkle fries, onion rings, or sweet potato fries.
- Add a side of coleslaw or pickle spears for contrast.
- Wash it down with a cold soda or craft beer.
- Extra baconnaise? Use it as a fry dip or spread on sandwiches!
Leave a Comment